Wednesday, January 19, 2011

... reminiscing & embracing ...

Cherry Tarts.

When I think of cherry tarts, I think of Mrs. Cox. Why, you might ask? Well, this darling woman taught me how to bake my very first dessert in her Jr. High - Home Economics class ... of course it was Cherry Tarts :) And, I went home and made them over and over ... and over again.

Since my leaving Jr. High - some many moons ago, my part not her's! LOL - she transferred to my daughter's elementary school, and luck was on our side when my daughter entered her classroom in third grade. Mrs. Cox became a favorite all over again!

The saying goes, "like mother, like daughter," and it certainly holds true with this family. Her daughter, Sam, is fun-loving and a real sweetheart of a gal. Sam has also chosen a path in life to enrich the lives of children in her own classroom. These two women will surely have a hand in molding and inspiring young people to do great things in their lives.

So, when Sam asked that I create a home portrait & family tree for her mom & dad as a Christmas present, I jumped at the opportunity.

She requested a home portrait done in a winterscape and warm lighting from the home.



Because there was much lawn frontage, we decided to go light with the snow on the ground, and create a snow fall to enhance the winter scene. Golden light from the windowpanes exudes warmth and comfort held within the home - - I imagine a sweet smell of deliciousness wafting from the oven and embracing visitors as they are welcomed inside. It looks as though there might be a delay for school the next morning should the snow continue to fall overnight ... :)

Next on the list was their family tree. Sam decided on a 16x20 wrapped canvas, which allowed wonderful spacing for the branches and detail.

As avid birdwatchers, Sam suggested that I add something to embrace their hobby and love for birds. She also chose an autumn themed family tree, which is becoming one of the most popular designs. I personally favor this style as well, as I like to imagine which strong little leaves have survived the brisk fall winds before tumbling to the ground, decorating it in color.

And, then we have ... "All because two people fell in love ..." One of my favorite sayings. I love that Sam requested these words, as I've always felt that they encompass a marriage in strength and stature. Because these two people created a life together, they in turn created a family that continues to branch out, growing and flourishing year after year. Love that!
My daughter came home from school the other day and told me that Mrs. Cox pulled her aside to remark how she loved her paintings ... this just warmed my heart.
Recalling this, I just had a thought ... perhaps I'll surprise the kids with dessert tonight. I'm thinking -- you guessed it~ Cherry Tarts :) The kids will love making their own!
Happy Wednesday!
Memory is a way of holding onto the things that you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.
- Kevin Arnold - The Wonder Years

1 comment:

Kaybe said...

Love the sky in your picture.

Take good care,

Karen